Gourmands

East-siders come to play pool, or to flex their cerebral muscle with the Geeks Who Drink pub quiz on Wednesday nights. With a full menu of sandwiches and soup and an encyclopedic beer selection, it definitely feels more like a cozy pub than a destination bar. But people come out raving about the menu: Crisp salads, and a crazy sandwich selection. Power outlets in half of the booths, and an amazing range of beers keep the place busy until closing.

This may be a bar providing Alamo Drafthouse moviegoers with a new foraging alternative, but Chef John Bullington's snacky menu includes interpretations of classic Mexican street food, such as N.Y. Strip alambras and a giant Sonoran hot dog. Brunch is exciting as well, what with tangy avocado tomatilla sauces, and poblanos in the chichimigas.

5701 W. Slaughter, 512/861-7070

While the ABGB remains a favorite South Austin pizza and pint hangout, with a large outdoor patio and rotation of on-premise signature brews, its inside stage has become a regular stop for local bands since opening in 2013. Its 270-person inside and laid-back, shared-table vibe provides excellent sound, generous floor space in front of the stage, and a casual, family-friendly atmosphere that can accommodate both fans of the bands or just the beer. The parking lot fills quickly.